Durham, NC - PARO, a robotic seal pup, was among the innovations explored at the Institute on Care at the End of Life's Roundtable "The Implications of Technology," Oct. 25-27, at Duke Divinity School. The therapeutic device was developed by a Japanese firm as a low-maintenance companion for those unable to have a live pet.

From left, Kirsten Corazzini, assistant professor of gerontology at the School of Nursing; Dr. Ray Barfield, associate professor of pediatrics and Christian philosophy; Annette Orlowski, assistant vice president of clinical service, home health and hospice, HCR ManorCare; and Dr. Richard Payne, professor of medicine and divinity and director of the institute.

Photo by Les Todd